-
Step 1
Consider what you cook, how much you cook, and how you cook those meals. This will help you decide what size pots you need, and what function you need them to perform. Buying a complete set may not be the smart way to go. You may end up having unnecessary, unused pots just taking up space. Also, keep in mind what storage space you have. Pots come in all shapes and sizes, and some may not fit in your cupboard space.
-
Step 2
Determine your price range. Keep in mind that better quality pots will cost you more, initially but will last longer.
-
Step 3
Know your material options and the pros and cons of each. For example: aluminum is lightweight, a great conductor of heat and quite durable; yet this material reacts to acidic food, causing the pots as well as light-colored food to become discolored. In a worst case, aluminum pots may cause some foods to have a bitter taste. Some companies offer a special aluminum material that does not react to acids. This is called a hard-anodizing aluminum. It is harder than stainless steel. Other material options include copper, porcelain, stainless steel, cast iron, non-stick and combinations of these options.
-
Step 4
Do you want a pot that can be used on the stove top as well as in the oven? Do you want it to be dishwasher safe?
-
Step 5
Do you like the placement of the handles? Are they large enough to grip with pot-holders? Is it too heavy? Is it large enough for the cooking tasks you want to accomplish?
-
Step 6
Conductivity is the way a pot transfers the heat from the burner to the rest of the pot and the food in it. Every metal has different conductivity. Look for highly conductive pots--ones that will evenly transfer heat across the bottom and up the side, so food will cook evenly.
-
Step 7
Once you know what you are looking for in your cookware, take the time to shop around and compare prices. Watch for sale ads from major department stores or use the Internet as a source for purchasing pots and pans.
